Bollettino valanghe

East Slopes North

Northwest Avalanche Center
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Pericolo valanghe

Thu
Alta quota
2 · Moderato
Limite del bosco
2 · Moderato
Sotto il limite
2 · Moderato
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Non aggiornato — questo bollettino è scaduto 6 years ago. Stai vedendo condizioni passate, non il bollettino in corso.

In sintesi

Scattered snowfall and intermittent winds will create modest, but potentially sensitive slabs and drifts along exposed ridgelines. Avoid newly drifted areas where an avalanche can carry you into rocks, trees, cliffs, or other obstacles.

Problemi valanghivi

  • Wind Slabs

    • Alta quota
    • Limite del bosco
    • Sotto il limite del bosco
    Probabilità
    Possible
    Dimensione
    1–2

    Winds created shallow and isolated drift in the alpine on Tuesday. Continued showers and wind Tuesday night and Wednesday will likely add to the picture. The avalanche danger today will probably be limited to wind slabs on exposed features, or small dry loose on very steep sheltered slopes. 

    These slabs will be noticeably denser than the new snow in sheltered areas -- it’s probably best to avoid them on steep consequential slopes. Conditions may change rapidly if we get strong winds on Wednesday, so stay alert for signs of wind drifting snow (plumes coming off ridgelines) or signs of instability in the new snow (such as shooting cracks).  

    Shooting cracks are a great sign of instability in the new wind slabs. (1/26/2021) Photo: Simon Trautman

Avalanche Discussion

Recently, observers have reported facets at or near the surface and widespread surface hoar on a crust below treeline. By Wednesday afternoon there will probably be around 6 inches of newer snow above the facets … something we will want to keep track of as we continue to incrementally load the snowpack into next week. 

The last reported avalanches on Washington Pass were small wind slabs on the 18th and 19th. In general, the snowpack near and just east of the Pass is strong and relatively deep. In the eastern part of the zone, you'll find a shallower and possibly weaker snowpack. If you travel in the far eastern part of the range, such as the Chelan-Sawtooth Mountains, Twisp River, Eight Mile, and Chewuch drainages, take time to dig in the snow and look for older weak layers.

On the night of January 12th, a major avalanche cycle was brought on by heavy snow and rain. Observers reported many large to very large avalanches, up to D3 in size (big enough to break mature timber and bury cars). Evidence of this avalanche cycle can still be seen in the mountains. 

During the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, continue to follow the latest guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. Avoid unnecessary risks that could impact first responders and stress medical resources. Wear a mask when appropriate, practice social distancing, and consider recreating closer to home.

Regioni coperte